Differential Diagnosis for Cerebral AVN in a 4-year-old Female
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Arteriovenous Malformation (AVM): This is a congenital condition where there's an abnormal connection between arteries and veins in the brain, leading to a risk of rupture and bleeding. It's a common cause of cerebral vascular malformations in children.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Cavernous Malformation: Also known as cavernoma, this is a vascular lesion composed of abnormally large capillary spaces. It can cause seizures, hemorrhage, and other neurological symptoms.
- Moyamoya Disease: A rare condition caused by narrowing or blockage of the internal carotid artery and its branches, leading to a reduction in blood flow to the brain. It can cause strokes, seizures, and other symptoms.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Aneurysm: Although rare in children, a cerebral aneurysm can rupture and cause severe bleeding, leading to death or severe disability. It's essential to rule out this condition due to its high mortality rate.
- Vasculitis: Inflammation of the blood vessels in the brain can cause stroke, hemorrhage, and other symptoms. Conditions like primary central nervous system vasculitis (PCNSV) can be deadly if not promptly diagnosed and treated.
- Rare diagnoses
- Capillary Telangiectasia: A rare, benign vascular lesion composed of dilated capillaries. It's usually asymptomatic but can cause symptoms if it bleeds or compresses surrounding brain tissue.
- Vein of Galen Malformation: A rare congenital condition where there's an abnormal connection between arteries and the vein of Galen, leading to high-pressure blood flow and potential brain damage.